One-word prepositions

1 Fill in the gaps in the following sentences below with an appropriate compound/phrasal
preposition from the box below. Not all the expressions are needed.

a. _________ the protagonist’s sudden illness, the filming of the show had to be postponed.
b. _________ staring at the ceiling and getting bored, why don’t you help me unload the dishwasher?
c. _________ his lack of computer skills, John decided to take a basic IT course.
d. _________ this year’s Christmas festivities, my suggestion is that we organise a carol concert and
offer refreshments afterwards.
e. _________ a decrease in the show’s ratings, its creators still defend it’s a success and wish to
continue telling their stories.

in light of  aside from  due to in accordance with  because of  in regard to

in exchange for  in spite of  instead of  in addition to

2 Use the words in brackets to rewrite the sentences below without changing the meaning.

a. Because his publicity campaign was such a huge success, Peter was promoted and got a raise.
(due to) _____________________________________________________________________________
b. Notwithstanding her aptitude for Math and Sciences, Julia wishes to take a course in languages at
university.
(in spite of ) ___________________________________________________________________________
c. James not only refurbished his house but also tidied the garage, which was a mess.
(in addition to) _________________________________________________________________________
d. We’ve decided to spend our holiday in France rather than Cornwall this year.
(instead of) ___________________________________________________________________________
e. I’m interested in books about foreign countries and also like history and gastronomy.
(apart from) ___________________________________________________________________________

3 Now it’s your turn to create

sentences using compound and phrasal
prepositions!
Feel free to write about yourself/your
family/ your best friend, etc.!

EXAMPLE: In addition to playing the

electric guitar, I’m also learning the drums.